In modern times, natural surface trails provide an avenue for people to pursue recreational activities, and gain physical, mental, and emotional benefits while enjoying the great outdoors. Our use of trails today is oftentimes peaceful, and inspires reconnection to the beauty and serenity of the natural world.
Even trails that pass through historically significant areas or cultural landmarks provide an opportunity to explore and learn about the rich heritage of a region. People can walk or hike along these trails, experiencing the memorable context and significance of the sites they encounter. These trails remind us of a time when their usage was based more in functional survival as opposed to an Emersonian walk in the woods.
For example, the extensive trail system in the colonies leading up to and during the American Revolution allowed for the rapid dissemination of news, intelligence, and orders among the revolutionaries. Riders on horseback utilized trails to spread information about British troop movements, rallying colonial militias in the process.
Trails also facilitated the movement of troops and during military campaigns. The ability to transport soldiers quickly and efficiently across the vast American landscape was vital for coordinating strategic operations and engaging British forces. The control and defense of key trails were crucial in maintaining a steady flow of necessary supplies like ammunition and food to support the revolutionary cause.
While many factors influenced America’s victory in the war for independence, trails were undoubtedly instrumental in facilitating the birth of our new nation.
Trails have also played a significant role in the pursuit of freedom for American slaves during the era of slavery in the United States. The Underground Railroad utilized trails and pathways to help enslaved individuals escape to free states or Canada. This network of routes, and the notably brave individuals involved in guiding slaves to freedom, exemplify the human spirit's unwavering commitment to liberty and justice.
The overall struggle for freedom in both of these instances were (and in some cases - still are) complex and multifaceted endeavors. But the supportive role of trails, while somewhat inconspicuous, should be noted within that broader context. For many of us, even today, trails equal freedom. We are lucky to live in a region that offers so many trails on which to commute, commune and continually go in search of the American promise of sovereignty that exists just through the woods.
We hope you can spend some time on this Independence Day in reflection of our nation’s inception, which remains one of the most remarkable experiments in the history of the world. And if you do so while on a trail, we encourage you to think about experiences others had on that land long before any of us stepped foot there. You may well be in the presence of an American spirit who believed in a greater good for all, and gave everything to achieve that dream.
Happy 4th of July! - Your Friends at CORA